What is research experience?

What does research experience actually entail? Does a research assistant doing data entry and taking down patient info count? I am currently a research assistant for a doctor doing a new drug trial. Does that count as research or does it need to be a poster presentation or research in a lab? It is actually very fascinating for me to work on this drug trial and I enjoy it. Also how many hours do I need?
Source: Student Doctor Network - Category: Universities & Medical Training Authors: Source Type: forums